Star of Bethlehem, Orange Star Flower, Sun Star, Chinkerinchee, Geeltjienkerientjee, Snake Flower, Drooping Star of Bethlehem
Ornithogalum: Graceful bulbous perennials known as Star-of-Bethlehem or Chincherinchee, boasting exquisite star-shaped flowers in a range of colors, adding elegance to gardens and floral arrangements.
Ornithogalum, commonly known as Star of Bethlehem, is a genus of perennial plants native to southern Europe and southern Africa.
Description: Ornithogalum species are characterized by their striking white, star-shaped flowers. They have a central green stripe on the outer petals and a faintly sweet scent.
Growth Habit & Size: Ornithogalums have a clump-forming growth habit. Depending on the species, they range from 2 inches (5 cm) to 24 inches (60 cm) in height and spread.
Flowers: The flowers are usually white, star-shaped, and borne in racemes or clusters. Each flower has six petals, often with a green or silvery reverse.
Foliage: The leaves of Ornithogalum are generally linear or lance-shaped, green, and arranged in a basal rosette. Some species have leaves with a silvery stripe down the middle.
Blooming Season: Most Ornithogalum species bloom in late spring to early summer, though the timing can vary depending on the species and climate.
Hardiness: The hardiness of Ornithogalum depends on the species. Many are hardy in USDA zones 4-11. Most of the European species tolerate moderate frosts, whereas the South African species are frost tender and may need to be lifted for winter.
Uses: Ornithogalum is often used in gardens for its striking, star-shaped flowers. It can be used in borders, containers, rock gardens, or as a cut flower. The flowers are long-lasting when cut (1-3 weeks), making them a great choice for vases.
Pollinators: The sweet scent and bright flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Toxicity: All parts of Ornithogalum plants are toxic if ingested, and can cause skin irritation on contact. They should be handled with care and kept away from pets and children.
Deer and Rabbit: Ornithogalum is usually resistant to deer and rabbits due to its toxicity.
Drought: Once established, many Ornithogalum species are moderately drought-tolerant.
Invasiveness: They usually are great naturalizers and gleefully multiply to quickly form small colonies. Some species of Ornithogalum, such as O. umbellatum, can be invasive in certain conditions. They can spread by both seeds and bulbs, and can be difficult to remove once established.
Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.
Hardiness |
4 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Bulbs, Perennials |
Genus | Ornithogalum |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Late), Summer (Early, Mid), Winter |
Height | 2" - 2' (5cm - 60cm) |
Spread | 2" - 2' (5cm - 60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
Hardiness |
4 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Bulbs, Perennials |
Genus | Ornithogalum |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Late), Summer (Early, Mid), Winter |
Height | 2" - 2' (5cm - 60cm) |
Spread | 2" - 2' (5cm - 60cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Cut Flowers, Showy |
Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
Attracts | Bees, Butterflies |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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